Take-off! Materials: Plastic
What’s inside...
'Materials' is a series that explores the properties and characteristics of everyday materials. Each book in the series examines the ways in which materials are made into familiar products at a level that primary school children can understand.
Why read this book
- Explores practical uses of plastic in an engaging way.
- Supports environmental awareness and responsible usage.
- Encourages scientific curiosity in young readers.
- Vibrantly illustrated, capturing children's attention effectively.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some everyday items around us that are made of plastic?
How do you think the world would be different if plastic was never invented?
Can you think of any ways we can reduce our use of plastic to help the environment?
Why do you think plastic is used so much in making things?
If you could invent something new using plastic, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use real-life examples of plastic items during the discussion to make the concept more tangible for the child.
Encourage the child to think creatively and critically by asking them to come up with alternatives to plastic items they currently use.
Discuss the environmental impact of plastics and explore together ways to be more eco-friendly in everyday life.
Highlight the importance of recycling and how it can help reduce plastic waste.
Show enthusiasm and curiosity about the child’s ideas and inventions regarding new uses for plastic, fostering a deeper exploration of the material.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the importance of recycling
Explanation: The book highlights how plastic can be recycled to make new products, teaching children about sustainability.
Real-World Application: Children can practice recycling plastic items at home and school, fostering an environmentally conscious mindset from a young age.
Example Lesson: Learning about the versatility of materials
Explanation: Chris Oxlade explains the various uses of plastic, from toys to medical devices, helping children understand how materials shape everyday items.
Real-World Application: Kids can explore identifying different plastic items around them, enhancing their observational skills and understanding of material uses.
Example Lesson: Developing responsibility towards environmental health
Explanation: The book discusses the impact of plastic waste on the environment, promoting awareness about pollution.
Real-World Application: Children can participate in local clean-up drives and be encouraged to use reusable materials to reduce plastic waste.
Example Lesson: Encouraging curiosity and learning in science
Explanation: By exploring the properties and applications of plastic, the book nurtures curiosity about how things are made and encourages interest in science.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in simple science experiments at home or school related to materials, fostering a love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of innovation
Explanation: The book illustrates how new types of plastics are continually being developed for better functionality, teaching the concept of innovation.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think creatively in their projects, understanding that innovation is key to solving problems and improving existing ideas.